PONTIAC, Mich. – A leading animal rights and anti-cruelty activist is calling for an investigation into Oakland County Animal Control.
The Puppy Mill Awareness of Southeast Michigan alleges the county is doing a poor job of monitoring kennels and pet stores, and enforcing laws once a violation is identified.
"We're not getting action. They are monitoring and going out (a little), but not enforcing even basic animal cruelty laws," said Pam Sordyl, of Puppy Mill Awareness of SE Michigan. "Medical attention, sanitary conditions, exercise. These are the types of things not being addressed by animal control."
The group said violations at five kennels were not cited, even though one kennel has failed 13 inspections more than 7 years, including one as recently as September.
There were 25 complaints in 2015 of sick animals from area pet stores, including claims that sick dogs were sold across state lines, which is a violation of state law.
Public Service Director Mark Neumann oversees animal control. He said pet stores do not fall under the department's purview. He also pointed out that kennels with cleanliness violations have always cleaned up within days, and passed subsequent inspections.
Oakland County commissioners said the group's complaints warrant a closer look.
"According to the photos they showed us it was a valid concern.And it needs to be looked at," one commissioner said.